How to be a great Airbnb host

1. React Quickly

 

When there is an unexpected event, an inconvenience, or a situation that requires your attention, don’t panic—and above all, don’t make false promises. In managing your rental properties, it’s inevitable that you will face problems. As the saying goes, “the problems we face eventually fade.”

 

For example, your central air conditioning system stops working over the weekend. A technician wants to charge you double-time for the repair.

 

An easy but ineffective approach would be to offer a discount and tell the guests that a technician will come after their departure. Not only do you lose money, but your guests’ stay is negatively impacted.

 

There is a problem only when you cannot find a solution.

 

The right way to act is to take control of the situation while reassuring your guests. Let them know that even though the situation is out of your control, you will do your best to accommodate them.

 

Then, schedule an appointment as soon as possible to install fans or a temporary portable air conditioner in the apartment.

 

In short, in the vast majority of cases, there are ways to keep your guests happy— but it requires effort and quick action!

 

 

2. Be a Good Listener

 

Your guests want to know that you are available and easy to reach. Don’t miss the opportunity to make a good first impression.

 

Moreover, travelers are the only ones who fully experience the accommodation and the neighborhood. By listening to their point of view and caring about their well-being, you will improve both your service and your product.

 

It’s not just about great reviews; it’s also about offering a memorable vacation experience. Each traveler comes from a different background and enjoys sharing their stories. Learning from your guests’ perspectives is one of the greatest assets of an outstanding host.

 

 

3. Keep Your Calendars Up to Date

 

If you want to have a presence on multiple websites, you can connect your calendars together to avoid double-bookings on different platforms.

 

There are several online Property Management Systems (PMS) that can help you synchronize all your calendars. In most cases, short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb, HomeAway, or Booking.com negatively impact your visibility if your calendar isn’t properly managed.

 

It is highly recommended to become familiar with the platform you are using to avoid having bookings during peak periods of the year at extremely low prices.

Believe it or not, some travelers search months in advance to find the perfect place—specifically, to find and take advantage of the host who didn’t pay attention to their pricing calendar.

 

Keep your eyes open!

 

 

4. Review Your Product with Perspective

 

Often, the product we offer is inevitably filtered through our own way of thinking or seeing things.

 

If you do everything yourself without a second opinion, that’s great—everyone has to start somewhere! However, how can you be sure that your intentions are not being interpreted differently by your guests?

 

For example, at Cozyhosts, we have taken over the management of apartments that were decorated and furnished without any personal touch. Essentially: a mattress, no headboard, no bedside table, and no decorations.

 

An owner might say, “People come here to sleep; I want them to go explore the city!”

 

Even if the guest loves the neighborhood, chances are they won’t return. After spending the week digging through their suitcase to find wrinkled clothes, next time they’ll stay with your neighbor—who thought of everything!

 

Among other things, a $15 wardrobe organizer from Ikea can help you get better reviews and improve practicality.

In short, to offer a product loved by everyone, one of the best ways to succeed is to compare your listings with hosts who are thriving!